Business Class To Seoul South Korea
If you are planning a trip to Seoul, South Korea this year, don’t automatically rule out business class tickets. Taking an international business class flight to Seoul unlocks many great amenities and benefits. Business class tickets do cost more than economy or coach, but they also offer greater comfort and an easier travel experience.
Seoul’s busiest airport, Incheon International Airport (ICN), provides business class travelers access to luxurious lounges with excellent amenities. Since ICN ranks among the world’s busiest airports, escaping to a quiet lounge with personalized attention from lounge attendants becomes a major perk. Lounge staff often guide you through the pre-boarding process and suggest the best time to head to your gate, especially given the airport’s size.
Traveling internationally with a business class ticket offers a vastly different experience compared to economy. Many travel websites list inexpensive and cheap flights to Seoul, even offering deals for last-minute travelers!
Things to Do in Seoul
Gyeongbokgung Palace
Built in 1395, Japanese forces destroyed Gyeongbokgung Palace during an invasion in the 1590s. King Gojong began restoring it 300 years later, but another Japanese invasion ruined most of the rebuild. Restoration efforts finally brought the palace back to life in the 1990s. Its stunning architecture and rich history make this a must-see attraction.
The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Not for the faint of heart, a visit to the DMZ is a surreal experience. This 148-mile-long, 2-mile-wide buffer zone marks the division between North and South Korea. The actual Military Demarcation Line has heavy military presence, but tourists flock to the infamous 38th Parallel.
Panmunjom, an abandoned town straddling the border, marks the site where the Korean War Armistice Agreement was signed in 1953. Visitors can place a foot in each country along the building’s dividing line and even peer into North Korea through mounted telescopes.
Gwangjang Market
This is the best street food market in Seoul. While the market also sells textiles, the food draws in the crowds. Explore countless street stalls and sample authentic Korean dishes. Friendly vendors often call out to invite you to dine at their booths.
Mount Namsan
Mount Namsan isn’t high at 237 meters, but a fun cable car whisks you to the top. From there, enjoy panoramic city views or head even higher to the North Seoul Tower’s observatory for a full skyline experience.
Jongmyo Shrine
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Confucian royal shrines in the world. Built in the 14th century, Japanese invaders destroyed it during the 16th century. Korean builders rebuilt it in the 17th century, and it has remained largely unchanged since then. The royal family historically used the shrine to honor deceased monarchs and pray for the state.
Day Trips and Attractions Near Seoul
Suwon’s Hwaseong Fortress
Located about an hour and a half from Seoul by train or car, this 18th-century Korean castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk the entire grounds, tour the gates and walls, and visit the on-site museum to explore its history.
Namsan Park & N Seoul Tower
Namsan Park provides sweeping views of Seoul. For the best view, visit the N Seoul Tower’s 1,574-foot-high observation deck. Couples often bring padlocks to attach to the sky deck’s fence as a symbol of everlasting love. The tower also features a rotating French restaurant.
Neighborhoods and Shopping n Seoul
Insadong
A charming neighborhood in central Seoul where you can shop for traditional Korean clothing, teas, calligraphy items, and souvenirs. With no motor vehicles allowed, the area maintains an old-world feel, complete with street performers and artists interacting with tourists.
Dongdaemun
This is Seoul’s shopping haven, home to 26 malls and 30,000 specialty shops. The area stays open 24 hours and divides into retail and wholesale sections depending on which side of Jangchungdan-ro you’re on. After a shopping spree, grab a bite in Mukja Golmok (“Let’s Eat Alley”) or sample food from local stalls.
Bukhansan National Park
In the heart of Seoul lies Bukhansan National Park, spanning over 30 square miles of scenic hiking trails, granite peaks, and historical landmarks. A standout attraction is the Bukhansanseong Fortress, which Korean royals built in 1711 as an emergency refuge.
For the best panoramic views, take the Bukhansanseong trail up to Baegundae Peak. Be prepared for a strenuous three-hour round-trip hike that rewards you with breathtaking views—comparable to trekking parts of the Great Wall of China.
What You Get with Business Class
An international business class ticket to Seoul grants you access to shorter lines at check-in and security, plus a more generous baggage allowance (varies by airline). You’ll board the plane before economy travelers and enjoy a seat that fully reclines into a bed—perfect for sleeping during your flight.
Expect top-notch meal service with gourmet food, complimentary alcohol, desserts, and as many blankets and pillows as you need. Experienced flight attendants often share useful tips about Seoul, so feel free to ask them for recommendations!
